In my opinion, the B234F (16v) is just as good as any of the other engines... It is just requires a little more maintenance, especially preventative maintenance... really the only thing that can go is the timing belt, and that's easy enough to change... I think i could do it in 2 hours... (and don't forget the re-tension of the belt 5000 miles later on 89 models w/manual tensioner!) the 16v is pretty peppy, considering it has the upper RPM power, and the 4.10 gear and the more agressively geared AW72L transmission... once it hits around 4000 RPM it just has this nice acceleration =) so far in the year of owning my 16v, i havent had a lick of problem related to the engine... (I did change the timing belt promptly when i got it... and replaced the balance shaft tensioner and bolt with the new re-designed unit) I've heard of that oil-pump pulley bolt failing, but i haven't changed mine... I suspect that problem from having improper tension on the timing belt...

Cliff Scott
89 740 16v

Assuming the service history looked good and a trusted mechanic gave me the thumbs up I'd buy it, and get the timing belt replaced right away, switch the oil to synthetic and change it every 3000 miles, and enjoy the extra power. For reference, I paid $4250 for a clean '89 745GL with 121k on it a year and a half ago. Good luck--

jeff daigle
'89 745GL 135,000mi

I don't want to dump on another person's car choice, but.... that engine would probably be one of my last choices for Volvo engines (right after all the 6 cylinders) There are so many good b230f equipped cars available I would never consider the 16v. If he wants a little better "go" steer him towards a turbo. Besides I think that is too much money.

If however he is still interested in bringing it home I hope it at least has all service records available and no matter what the records say I would change that belt out immediately- it is a high risk item.

This is just an opinion- survey results may vary...

Randy